Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, located on California's beautiful Central Coast, is a public university known for its "Learn by Doing" philosophy. This approach integrates hands-on, practical experiences into its curriculum, preparing graduates for successful careers in an increasingly scientific and technological world. Cal Poly offers a challenging education for academically motivated students.

Academics

Cal Poly offers over 150 undergraduate majors and minors, and more than 50 graduate programs across six colleges: Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences; Architecture and Environmental Design; Orfalea College of Business; Engineering; Liberal Arts; and Bailey College of Science and Mathematics. The College of Engineering is particularly notable, ranking 8th nationally among undergraduate engineering schools where doctorates are not offered, and its Aerospace Engineering and Civil Engineering programs are highly rated. Popular undergraduate concentrations include Business Administration & Management, Mechanical Engineering, and Computer Science.

International Students

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo has a diverse student body, with international students making up approximately 1% to 2.2% of the total enrollment. The university attracts students globally, with a growing international population. While specific English-taught programs for international students are not explicitly detailed as separate from the general curriculum, the university's standard instruction is in English, and non-native English speakers typically need to provide proof of English proficiency for admission. Cal Poly offers numerous cultural organizations and diversity programs to support cultural integration.

Campus & Location

Cal Poly's campus is situated in San Luis Obispo, a classic college town on California's Central Coast, roughly equidistant from Los Angeles and San Francisco. The university boasts one of the largest campuses in the U.S., featuring cutting-edge labs, hands-on learning facilities, and distinct residential communities. San Luis Obispo itself offers a vibrant community with access to wine regions, beaches, and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Career Outcomes

Cal Poly graduates demonstrate strong career outcomes, with 91% employed or pursuing graduate degrees. The university's "Learn by Doing" philosophy emphasizes practical skills, making graduates highly sought after by employers. Career Services conducts an annual Graduate Status Report, providing data on employment and graduate school admissions. Graduates in engineering and computer sciences often report high early career earnings, and major employers include companies like Apple, Boeing, Google, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman. The Cal Poly Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) fosters a strong startup culture, offering programs like the Summer Accelerator and an Incubator to support student and community ventures.